Recently we acknowledged #nationalcomingoutday. I think about how much my life has changed over the past years since I came out to myself, and then again coming out to friends and family.
I think about how I told my grandma before she died and she said she knew all along and was proud of me for being honest with myself. Then asked me how many women I’d slept with 😂 I wish she was here.
I think about how the amount of love and support shown by my best friends makes me overflow with joy.
I think about the two moms that made me family when I needed it the most. You gave me somewhere to bring my significant other “home”.
I think about how my relationship with God has grown and deepened into a level I never imagined when I was so heavily focused on living by evangelical interpretations on the Bible. God loves me unconditionally, even when I question how when I’ve made so many mistakes.
I think about those in other countries that are persecuted for homosexuality and how fortunate I am to live in a country where I don’t have to worry about going to prison or being killed for loving someone the same gender as me.
I think about how much it hurts to dwell on the negative side of coming out. My parents not supporting me (although I will say my mom is coming around slowly ♥️), hearing the hateful words and actions against the LGBTQ community, the criticism my children will endure having two moms, and being treated different in daily life all because of the way I love. I hate the hate the gay community has thrown back at those who don’t like the way we love. Fighting hate with hate does not make you any better.
I think that coming out made me a better person. It made me more confident and has taught me how to love myself, which has been an ongoing battle. I know things may have seemed easier, but being true to yourself and happy is worth the bumps.
So today whether you are out and proud, questioning and not quite ready to make that step, or confidently straight, be authentically you because we only get one life to live.